I remember having stuff like that in the late 80s and early 90s in Utah. I suspect that manufacturers eventually realized they could make more appealing packaging for a small amount of money and dramatically increase sales.

I liked it, but it's extremely densely written. That denseness is part of what I like- I found the Bene Gesserit entirely believable, and the details of how the ecosystem worked were fascinating to me. Different strokes for different folks.

Separately, I think the BG "Litany on Fear" is masterful, and I find that useful in my own life.

I think that the romance of trains vs. planes might be related to how miserable commercial airline travel has become. Of course, it's still cheaper than rail for pretty much any distance, so perhaps you get what you pay for?

I live in DC and have severe allergies. I describe myself as being allergic to congressional hot air, because I feel much worse whenever congress is in session. I've said this for the last eighteen years (maybe I need some new jokes), regardless of who's in charge.